§ 22. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will encourage the creation of new villages as well as new towns.
§ Mr. AmeryI welcome initiatives for the development of new communities large and small, though each case must be considered on its merits and in the general planning context.
§ Mr. KingAre not we stuffing too many workers into high-rise flats where they tend to live like battery hens, while people who want to live in the countryside cannot get a planning consent anywhere? Is it not a fact that, while preserving a green belt and agricultural land, tens of thousands of acres could still be made available to provide an infinitely improved environment in which people—admittedly a minority—desire to live? Will my right hon. Friend try to help?
§ Mr. AmeryI have very great sympathy with my hon. Friend's view, 1811 which I know is not new; he has pursued it over a number of years. If any proposals are brought forward, I shall make it my business to ensure that they are given sympathetic consideration.